Cocktail Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup seltzer or club soda
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• For sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can whole cranberry sauce
• 1 (12-ounce) bottle chili sauce
• Rice pilaf, cooked according to pacakge directions:(optional)

Preparation

1. Place beef, egg, bread crumbs, seltzer or soda, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix lightly but well to combine all ingredients.
2. Shape into 3/4-inch round balls, using your hands, a melon baller or a small scoop. Don't over-handle them, though, or they'll get tough. Set aside.
3. In a 2- to 3-quart saucepan, heat cranberry sauce and chili sauce over medium heat, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Drop meatballs into sauce. Return to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, for 45 minutes.
5. Serve with a toothpick in each meatball, or over rice pilaf if desired.